Total handle on Maryland racing rose 19.7% percent and in-state wagering jumped 18.4% in 2016, the Maryland Jockey Club announced Monday. $559 million was bet on Maryland races, up from $466 million in 2015, and in-state wagering totaled $141.8 million, besting last year's total of $119.7 million.
The MJC also enjoyed record attendance at its two biggest events in 2016, drawing a crowd of 135,256 for the May 21 GI Preakness S. card and welcoming 47,956 for the GII Black-Eyed Susan S. card the previous day.
“We're pleased with our progress, but we still believe there's more room for improvement and more room to grow this incredibly exciting sport,” said Sal Sinatra, President and General Manager of the Maryland Jockey Club. “We want to continue our capital improvements on the front side and back and we will continue in our efforts to play host to Maryland's first Breeders' Cup.”
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